Paan Traders Protest FDA Action In Mumbai

Thousands of paan traders from across Maharashtra gathered at Azad Maidan in Mumbai on Monday to protest against the state's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) action. The protest, organised by the Maharashtra Pan Vyapari Mahasangh, alleged that the FDA is misusing Section 328 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against small traders.

The Mahasangh, which represents over seven lakh paan vendors, submitted a memorandum to Maharashtra Food and Civil Supplies Minister Narhari Zirwal. The memorandum demanded the immediate withdrawal of the alleged misuse of MCOCA and Section 328 of the IPC against traders. It also sought the revocation of the ban on flavoured tobacco products and an end to what it termed arbitrary FDA action.

The traders further demanded financial assistance, collateral-free loans of up to Rs 10 lakh for pan shop owners, and government or semi-government employment for one member of every pan trader's family. They also sought the establishment of a Development Corporation for the welfare of nearly 10 lakh pan traders and around two crore people dependent on the trade.

Ajit Suryavanshi, State President of the Mahasangh, addressed the gathering and cited court orders in support of their demands. He said that two High Courts had earlier held that Section 328 of the IPC was not applicable in such cases. The matter is currently pending before the Supreme Court.

The Mahasangh claimed that although pan masala is recognised as a standardised food product under central food laws, traders in Maharashtra are facing stringent legal action. They urged the state government to ensure uniform application of the law and not treat Maharashtra's traders differently from those in other states.

The protest comes amid the FDA's intensified enforcement drive under Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe. The traders alleged that they are being harassed by police through misinterpretation of food safety laws. They demanded steps to prevent such harassment and ensure a fair and uniform application of the law.

The Maharashtra government has been facing criticism from various trade associations over its enforcement of food safety laws. The paan traders' protest is the latest in a series of demonstrations against the government's actions.

The demands submitted by the Mahasangh are likely to be considered by the state government. The establishment of a Development Corporation for the welfare of paan traders could provide much-needed support to the industry.

The protest at Azad Maidan highlighted the concerns of paan traders in Maharashtra. The state government's response to their demands will be closely watched by the trade association and the industry as a whole.

In conclusion, the paan traders' protest in Mumbai has brought attention to the issues faced by the industry. The state government's actions will determine the future of the trade and the livelihoods of thousands of people dependent on it. The protest has also highlighted the need for a fair and uniform application of the law, and the importance of supporting small traders and entrepreneurs in the state.